With college football's regular season in the books, NFL teams are intensifying their scrutiny of prospects for the 2013 draft. If there's an emerging story line, it's that the upcoming class won't be as top-heavy as a year ago, when QB's Andrew Luck and RG3 were the top two choices. Says one general manager, "You definitely don't want the first pick, because there's not a 'must have' guy."

SI interviewed a half-dozen NFL scouts and G.M.'s to identify the top eight prospects, without regard for any particular team's needs. The list is notable for seven juniors who are likely to declare and the absence of any offensive skill-position players.

1. Luke Joeckel, OT

"He plays LT, which is a premium. He's got the size and athleticism, and he's very smart. He's going to continue to grow into his body."

2. Taylor Lewan, OT

"He has a big frame, a good motor and a nasty streak. He's also started 34 or 35 games, so he has a lot of experience. He's not an 'elite' LT, but look for him to rise up boards."

3. Barkevious Mingo, OLB

"The two things he has are a knack for pass rushing and speed. That's a combination that gets you drafted high."

4. Bjoern Werner, DE

"He's one of the best pass rushers in the draft. I wouldn't call him dominant, but there's such a premium on guys who can get to the QB that he'll go a little higher than he should."

5. Star Lotulelei, NT

"He's good, but his value is going to escalate even further because there aren't many quality defensive tackles."

6. DeMarcus Milliner, CB

"He's a big corner with good speed and ball skills who hits. He's got a lot of upside. He's well-coached with good fundamentals, and he's going to test well at the combine."

7. Alec Ogletree, ILB

"He's got a little bit of a questionable background, but he's definitely a talent. He's a converted safety who can play all three downs and could probably play any linebacker position. He plays with a nasty streak, too."

8. Jarvis Jones, OLB

"He's a good pass rusher, but he doesn't have that Von Miller type burst around the corner. He's able to win with power and just enough getting-around-the-edge quickness."